Recommend February 2015 - (Page 16)

cruise IN THE LAP OF LUXURY at Sea Cruise lines continue to up the ante when it comes to exclusive onboard experiences and indulgent services. deserae del campo Penthouse aboard the Crystal Serenity. "Cruise lines such as Norwegian Cruise Line, which has The Haven, Royal Caribbean International, which offers private lounges for their loyal past guests, and MSC, which features the Yacht Club for VIP guests, are all in high demand," says Vicky Garcia, COO and co-owner of Cruise Planners, an American Express Travel Representative. These high-end onboard experiences are ideal for many types of clients: The seasoned cruiser who wants the full cruise experience with seclusion and privacy thrown in; the couple celebrating a honeymoon or anniversary; and the sophisticated traveler who expects the best service and quality on any vacation. Garcia says Cruise Planners' travel advisors are selling more highend suites and added amenities to their clients. "We are training [travel advisors] on how to market to a high-end client, providing exceptional service and upselling for the right client, which helps the agents earn even more commission." She adds that multigenerational groups can also take advantage of these exclusive amenities, which "are perfect for grandparents who are traveling with their family, but also want to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere." 16 february 2015 16-20 CRUISE.indd 16 What's her favorite exclusive service on a cruise ship? The onboard butler service, of course. "Having a butler is awesome- you never realize how much they can help until you have experienced one. For example, they help with booking shore excursions, unpacking for you, drinks and food upon request, and dinner reservations." crystal cruises Consider the penthouse suites on both the Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. The 1,345-sq.-ft. Crystal Penthouse w/Verandah, for example, comes with personal butler service (available 24 hours a day), which includes unpacking and packing of luggage; dining, spa, and shore excursion reservations; in-suite afternoon tea, pre-dinner cocktails, and in-suite dining. This speciﬁc cabin, on the Crystal Serenity, not only features a personal washer & dryer, but a master bath with a TV, heated ﬂoors, an oceanview spa tub, and a shower with a heated bench. The living quarters are also quite impressive with a spacious living room and a den with a sleeper sofa. The main bedroom can accommodate a queen-size bed or twin beds; there is also a large recommend.com 1/21/15 1:23 PM http://www.recommend.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Recommend February 2015

Editor’s Notes
Four Haute Hotel Happenings in 2015
Tauck
Let’s Talk Luxury
In the Lap of Luxury, At Sea
Tee Off & Unwind in the U.S.
Golf with “a Shot of Spa” in Vibrant Mexico
Barbados & Bermuda Get a Boost
Curaçao’s Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort
Upscaling the Wilderness
The “High Life” in France
Africa Ups the Luxury Ante
A Sense of Wellness in India

Recommend February 2015